Legislative powers of the city are vested in the City Council, consisting of five members elected citywide and one from each of the city's eight wards, for two-year terms. Annually, the council elects one of its members as president. The members receive reimbursement. If a mayoral vacancy occurs, the president of the council becomes acting mayor until a new mayor is elected.

The council holds hearings, passes ordinances, financial orders and resolutions, oversees city finances, votes on the budget, and may authorize the sale of bonds. Another important power of the council is land-use regulation through zoning ordinances and the granting of special permits. Although the council focuses on policy review, members can also discuss and question policies of the mayor's administration and review the performance of city departments. Members serve on standing committees, which study and review these matters. The council also elects the city clerk for a three-year term and confirms the appointment of the city auditor.

All council meetings are open to the public. Minutes are kept in the city clerk's office and are open for public inspection. Citizens may speak at council meetings, at hearings, and by special permission. If they wish to oppose an ordinance already approved or to have one adopted, they may obtain action through a referendum petition or an initiative petition. A half-hour public speak-out session is held before every regularly scheduled council meeting.

Councilors also respond to individual problems and complaints from citizens.